Hedge removal in Blyth can be a challenging task, not just in terms of the sheer effort involved, but also because of the laws that protect certain species of animal and plant life in Blyth.
At Tree Surgeon Pro, we can help with both: we'll handle the hard work and make sure that all the regulations are followed to the letter!
There are many reasons why you might wish to remove a hedge on your Blyth property, but here are some of the more common ones:
If a hedge has grown too large or dense, it can become difficult or costly to maintain. Overgrown garden hedges might also encroach on neighbouring properties, pavements, or public pathways, potentially leading to disputes or safety concerns.
A hedge might become diseased, die back, or suffer from pests, making it unsightly or unable to serve its purpose. In these cases, removal may be the best option to prevent the problem from spreading to other plants.
Hedges might need to be removed to make way for building projects, extensions, or changes to garden layouts. For example, if a homeowner wishes to install a fence, wall, or new planting scheme, removing the hedge may be necessary.
In some cases, overgrown hedges can obstruct the line of sight for drivers or pedestrians, particularly at road junctions or driveways. Removal may be required to improve visibility and enhance public safety.
Failing to do so can result in legal action under the Highways Act 1980, which states that property owners must ensure vegetation does not endanger or obstruct users of a highway. A breach of this could result in enforcement action or fines.
Depending on the severity of the incident, this can lead to criminal charges, including imprisonment for reckless endangerment or wilful negligence.
There may be legal requirements to remove a hedge if it violates local regulations, such as the UK’s High Hedges legislation. For instance, under the Anti-social Behaviour Act 2003, a hedge taller than two metres that significantly impacts a neighbour’s enjoyment of their property may need to be reduced or removed.
Tree Surgeon Pro's experts in Blyth can help, whatever your situation! We'll handle the hard work and help you avoid the legal pitfalls.
Some hedges, such as those producing pollen or berries, might be removed to reduce allergens or avoid attracting unwanted wildlife that could cause issues for homeowners or neighbours in Blyth.
Invasive species are subject to strict controls in the UK, and rules are in place to protect native plants from being negatively affected. If such a species (like Japanese Knotweed) grows in a hedgerow, it may be necessary to remove the entire hedge to eradicate the invasive plant.
If a hedge marks a property boundary and the boundary changes, the hedge might need to be removed or relocated to reflect the updated property lines. While not a common cause of hedge removal, it can cause a lot of stress and upset when it happens. We will help to liaise with all parties to ensure that the process goes as smoothly as possible.
At Tree Surgeon Pro, we’re passionate about delivering exceptional tree care services tailored to your needs. With years of experience, certified expertise, and a commitment to customer satisfaction, we’re your trusted partner for all things tree surgery.
When you contact us for hedge removal costs and other information, we'll discuss your requirements and arrange for a site visit.
The process will then unfold along these lines:
One of our qualified tree surgeons/arborists will inspect the site to assess the size of the hedge and any potential hazards or obstacles. They will determine the species, as this will dictate the methods and tools used, as well as the time required.
During the inspection, they will check for nesting birds and signs of other protected species. Finally, they will confirm whether the hedge is protected or covered by any legal restrictions (see below).
Based on the assessment, we can provide an accurate figure for your hedge removal project. This will incorporate factors such as:
A Tree Surgeon Pro expert will carry out a risk assessment to identify any hazards (usually during the initial inspection) and any required safety measures will be actioned before work begins.
If necessary, we will inform neighbours or the local authorities of the work, especially if it is next to public footpaths or highways.
Protective barriers will be set up around the site if required, along with warning signs.
Our specialists start by thinning out the hedge, breaking it down into manageable sections. Smaller hedges can be cut down to ground level with hand tools and chainsaws, while more mature hedges may require heavier machinery. Deciduous hedges are generally easier to remove than evergreen hedges, as they are less dense and have shallower root systems.
A stump grinder is often used to remove the remaining stumps and roots, as this prevents new growth and levels the ground surface.
All waste and debris is either passed through a woodchipper on-site to turn it into mulch or transported to a local council waste disposal facility for recycling.
Our team will remove all equipment and tools before sweeping up any remaining debris, including sawdust and woodchips. Depending on your plans for the site, they will settle the earth or replant it for you.
The cost of hedge removal depends on the scale and complexity of the project.
Obviously, the number-one factor that dictates cost is the size of the hedge, but there are others to consider, such as:
While prices will vary, here’s a rough guide to give you an idea:
For stump removal, expect an additional £50–£150 per stump, depending on size.
It's fair to say that very few people are aware of the laws concerning hedge removal in the UK. Unfortunately, ignorance of the law is never a valid excuse and won't protect you from the penalties. Because of this, it's wise to learn about these before you tackle hedge removal.
As experts in the arboriculture and tree-care industry, we know how important it is to keep up to date with all current legislation. While garden hedges are covered, countryside hedging is generally regarded as more important for several reasons.
Here are a few examples of the laws we need to be aware of:
Under these rules, certain types of hedges in England and Wales are protected, particularly those with significant environmental or historical value. Hedgerows have become part of the fabric of British landscape, with long-established
Under these regulations, you must notify your local planning authority (LPA) before removing most countryside hedgerows. The LPA will assess whether the hedge is "important" under criteria like age, ecological value, or historical significance.
A hedgerow might be classed as important if:
Are your hedges a crucial habitat for threatened insect-eating birds and native bees? If so, they may be protected by law. For example, an 85-metre stretch of hedgerow in Devon was found to contain more than two thousand different species.
Removing a protected hedgerow without permission can result in a £5,000 fine. This can be raised to an unlimited fine if you are prosecuted in the Crown Court.
However, hedges marking the boundaries of private houses are generally excluded - but it's best to be absolutely certain!
If your hedge contains trees covered by a TPO, you can't remove or cut back them without permission from your local council. Doing so can land you with a significant fine!
If the hedge is in a designated conservation area, you may need to give the local council six weeks' written notice of your intention to remove it. The council can issue a notice to protect the hedge if it contributes to the character of the area
The UK has stringent rules to protect wildlife, and this may affect the timing of hedge removal, or even whether it can go ahead.
Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, it is illegal to damage or destroy nests belonging to wild birds. Hedges are common nesting sites, so it's often best to avoid working on hedges during nesting season (usually between March and August).
Hedges may also host species protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act or the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 (e.g., bats, dormice). If protected species are present, you may need a licence from Natural England to remove the hedge.
In certain cases, complete removal isn't necessary. Instead, why not let our experts keep it in check with our Blyth hedge-trimming service?
If overgrown hedges are otherwise healthy and don't need to be stripped out for development or construction work, we'll ensure they are neat and tidy. They'll look a whole lot better, and they won't cause an obstruction!
And if you're concerned about long-term maintenance, we can arrange a regular schedule of hedge-trimming sessions to keep them in check. Most hedges benefit from being trimmed a couple of times a year, so we'd be happy to visit and do this, along with any other garden maintenance required.
Why choose us for hedge removal? Tree Surgeon Pro provides affordable hedge maintenance services to all, with fully insured, trained and qualified arborists and tree surgeons.
We guarantee professional service and perfect results with every project, so why tackle hedge removal yourself when our experts can handle this difficult task for you?
Contact our Blyth team today to learn more about hedge removal and discover our full range of expert tree care and garden maintenance services.
Hedge removal costs in the UK vary based on hedge size, type, and accessibility, typically ranging from £100 to £1,000. For an accurate quote, contact a local hedge removal specialist.
Permission for hedge removal depends on its location, height, and whether it is protected under the Hedgerows Regulations 1997. Always check with your local council before proceeding.
Hedge removal can take anywhere from a few hours to several days, depending on the hedge's size, root system, and ground conditions. A professional can give an estimated timeframe after an inspection.
Hedge roots can be fully removed using specialist equipment like stump grinders or manual excavation. Removing roots prevents regrowth and allows for replanting or landscaping.
Hedge removal waste is typically chipped, composted, or disposed of in an eco-friendly manner. Most professional services include waste removal as part of the job.
A hedge can be replaced with fencing, but local planning rules may apply if it borders a public highway or protected area. A professional can advise on legal requirements and installation options.
